As the chill of winter dissipates, spring ushers in renewed energy and the perfect opportunity to revitalize your fitness routine. If you've found yourself less active in the colder months, you're not alone. A study by the American Heart Association found that physical activity levels tend to drop by as much as 30% during winter. However, with the arrival of warmer weather, now is an ideal time to recommit to your physical health. Here are eight dynamic ways to increase your activity this spring, ensuring you stay motivated, enjoy diverse experiences, and improve your overall well-being.
Engaging a friend in your exercise routine not only makes the activity more enjoyable but also increases your commitment. Scheduling regular workout "dates" can provide the necessary motivation to stick to your fitness goals. Choose a reliable partner who will hold you accountable and encourage consistency.
Consider hiring a personal trainer who can tailor a fitness plan to your specific needs. Trainers with a background in exercise science or kinesiology, and certifications from respected organizations like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), can offer both expertise and motivational support.
Transition your workouts to the great outdoors. Activities like hiking, cycling, or even yoga in a park can significantly boost your mood and provide a refreshing change from indoor gym routines. According to a study published in Environmental Science & Technology, outdoor exercise is linked to increased energy and decreased feelings of tension, confusion, anger, and depression.
Incorporate walks after dinner to aid digestion and unwind before bedtime. This gentle form of physical activity not only helps in burning extra calories but also plays a crucial role in reducing stress hormones, promoting better sleep quality.
Take advantage of the earlier sunrises by starting your day with a morning walk, run, or bike ride. Morning exercise can kickstart your metabolism and enhance your mood for the day ahead. A study from Appalachian State University noted that morning exercise helps improve sleep patterns by promoting greater reductions in blood pressure at night.
Reignite your passion for team sports by joining a local club or league. Whether it’s soccer, volleyball, or tennis, team sports provide a structured exercise schedule and a fun, social way to stay fit. This not only keeps your routine exciting but also strengthens community connections.
Set a personal challenge by training for a race or fitness event. This goal-oriented approach ensures you adhere to a training schedule, pushing you to improve. Participating in charity runs or cycling events can also add a layer of motivation, as you’ll be supporting a cause you care about while getting fit.
Make exercise a non-negotiable part of your day by scheduling it just like any other important appointment. Writing down your workout times can significantly increase the likelihood of following through, thus making physical activity a regular part of your lifestyle.
Spring is a season of renewal and growth, making it the perfect time to refresh your approach to physical fitness. By implementing these strategies, you not only enhance your physical health but also contribute positively to your mental and emotional well-being. Embrace the season’s potential and make this spring your stepping stone to a more active, healthier you.
Heal Your Gut, Heal Your Brain
The phrase 'Going with your gut' is a common idiom for a reason. On one level, people have understood the gut’s vital role in decision-making instincts for decades. Often called the body’s second brain, experts call this little brain the enteric nervous system or ENS.
The Connection Between Gut Health and Inflammation
Your chronic inflammation may mean something else entirely, such a poor gut health. It bears repeating: your gut has a significant impact on your overall wellbeing.
Get rid of constipation with a nourished gut
I want to dig deeper into one of the main solutions to this problem so many millions of people struggle with – nourishing your gut. Making food and lifestyle choices to prevent constipation can go a long way, but also a healthy gut is key to prevent and manage any gut dysfunction that can lead to constipation.It is always easier to prevent illness than to treat it. So adopting healthy lifestyle choices before dealing with chronic constipation is ideal. But when that hasn’t been the case, there are choices you can start making today to get your gut on track.
